Making Life Work - 37L – WHAT KIND OF INSTRUMENT ARE YOU?

            There were a couple of situations I was in these last several weeks where our conversation kept leading towards thoughts about, (with a little tongue in cheek,)  “Does God know how bad it is on earth?”  “What is happening to our prayers?” 

   At the same time, we admitted to each other that we know there is a lot of good being accomplished every day.  Some referred to the Presbyterian Year Book of Prayer which tells us many stories of how the Church is bringing the good news of Christ as well as meeting peoples needs in this world.  Others mentioned other Christian magazines that are faithful in their witness of telling stories about ministries all over the world that are bringing healing in many countries.  

            Yet, we shared our pain for the ugly things happening from shootings, to war, to abuse, to pornography, violence, etc.  When I stop to think about it, I believe things would be much worse if it were not for those of us who have faith and are intentional about praying for solutions and making ourselves available to serve however we can.

Years and years ago I heard an interview between Diane Sawyer and Billy Graham.   She asked him towards the end of the interview whether he thought he was a success or a failure.  He quickly said he thought he was a failure.  She asked why?  He replied, “look at all of the awful things happening in the world.”

I cringed!  I wanted to jump into the TV and announce, “NO!”  I believe if it was not for people responding to God’s call through his ministry, things would be worse.  I believe the same way as far as our ministry in camping!  We did what we felt we were led to do through our ministry.  I look around and see so many in the pastoral ministry, on the mission field, active in the local church, living a life that reflects the fruit of the Spirit of love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, self control and gentleness.   I see so many helping those in need through the church. 

            I encourage us all to continue to faithfully pray, believing God is raising up those who can bring a solution to the hurts in the world.  After praying, let us then make ourselves available to be his instrument in whatever way we can!